SAN DIEGO - Calidi Biotherapeutics Inc. (NYSE American: CLDI), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, presented new research results at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2024, highlighting the role of stem cells in enhancing the effectiveness of antitumor virotherapies.
The study, which was conducted in collaboration with City of Hope, focused on the molecular mechanisms by which stem cells can potentially improve the anticancer effects of oncolytic viruses.
The company's innovative cancer treatment strategy involves using allogeneic stem cells to shield oncolytic viruses from the immune system, thereby enhancing their tumor-killing capabilities. The research presented today indicates that stem cells not only serve as a delivery mechanism for these viruses but also secrete immunomodulatory molecules that could further stimulate antitumor activity.
The transcriptomic analysis of the stem cells' secretome after oncolytic virus infection revealed the induction of cytokines and chemokines, suggesting an added immunotherapeutic effect. This finding supports the potential of Calidi's CLD-101 and CLD-201 platforms as universal treatments for solid tumors.
Calidi's CEO, Allan Camaisa, expressed confidence in the distinctiveness of their stem cell-based approach and its potential to improve outcomes for cancer patients. Antonio F. Santidrian, Chief Scientific Officer, emphasized the importance of understanding the action mechanism of their lead assets for treating solid tumors.
Previously, Calidi announced the commencement of a Phase 1 clinical trial with City of Hope, where the first patient with recurrent high-grade glioma was dosed with CLD-101. The trial's preliminary results indicated that the treatment was well-tolerated and stimulated an antitumor immune response.
Further updates on the clinical progress are expected in the second quarter of 2024, and the initiation of trials for CLD-201 is planned for the end of the year, subject to funding availability.
The insights from this research will be made available in the Scientific Publications section of Calidi's website following the conference's conclusion.
This article is based on a press release statement.
InvestingPro Insights
As Calidi Biotherapeutics Inc. (NYSE American: CLDI) continues to pioneer in the field of oncolytic virotherapies with stem cells, the company's financial health and stock performance are key factors for investors to consider. According to real-time data from InvestingPro, CLDI's market capitalization stands at a modest $13.5 million, reflecting the size and developmental stage of the company. The stock has experienced significant price volatility, with a 1-month price total return of -39.78%, which aligns with an InvestingPro Tip noting the stock's high volatility.
The company's financials indicate challenges, with an operating income of approximately -$28.99 million over the last twelve months as of Q4 2023. Another concerning InvestingPro Tip for investors is the company's quick cash burn rate, which may impact its ability to sustain operations without additional funding. This is particularly relevant as the company looks forward to the initiation of trials for CLD-201 by the end of the year, subject to funding availability.
Despite these financial headwinds, the potential of Calidi's innovative cancer treatment strategy remains a focal point of interest. Investors interested in the biotech sector might consider the high-risk, high-reward nature of companies like Calidi. For those looking to delve deeper into the company's financial health and stock performance, InvestingPro offers additional insights. There are 14 more InvestingPro Tips available for CLDI, which can be found at https://www.investing.com/pro/CLDI. To access these insights, use coupon code PRONEWS24 for an additional 10% off a yearly or biyearly Pro and Pro+ subscription.
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